A nail clipper cuts the free edge of a fingernail or toenail with two lever-pressed blades, either straight or curved. M1 Nail & Beauty Supply stocks straight, curved and heavy-duty stainless steel clippers, from small fingernail sizes to toenail clippers, from MBI, NGHIA, Staleks, Silver Star, ONME, Berkeley, Aprés and MNBS.
Types of nail clippers
| Type | Best for | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Straight edge | Toenails cut straight across, and square fingernail shapes. | MBI-262 Straight 3", NGHIA B.901 Straight, ONME Straight Stainless Steel, Stainless Steel Nail Clipper (flat or curved head) |
| Curved edge | Fingernails: the blade follows the curve of the nail. | MBI-261 Curved 3", NGHIA B.902 Curve, Curved Stainless Steel Clipper, Curved Head Clipper, Large, Curved Head Clipper, Small |
| Toenail and thick nails | Thick toenails that a small fingernail clipper cannot open around. | Steel Nail Clipper for Thick Nails, Silver Star Flat Head (toenail clipper) |
| Brand and retail clippers | Retail shelves and techs who want a specific maker's clipper. | Staleks Beauty & Care 11, Staleks Beauty & Care 50, Staleks Beauty & Care 51, Aprés Neon Nail Clipper, Berkeley 219F, Cartoon Nail Clipper |
How to choose a nail clipper
- Straight for toes, curved for fingers. A straight edge makes it easy to cut toenails straight across; a curved edge follows the fingernail.
- Size to the nail. Large clippers open wider for toenails; small ones give more control on fingernails. Very thick nails need a heavy-duty clipper or a toenail nipper.
- Stainless steel for salon use. Metal clippers can be cleaned and disinfected between clients like other implements; MBI states its steel tools can be autoclaved.
Related: Cuticle nippers, Cuticle pushers, Nail files, Sterilizers & disinfection, All hand tools
Nail clipper FAQ
Should I use a straight or a curved clipper on toenails?
Use a straight-edge clipper on toenails and cut straight across, leaving the corners just visible instead of digging into them. A curved clipper follows the round shape of a fingernail, which is why most fingernail clippers are curved. Smooth the cut edge with a file afterwards.
What clipper works on thick toenails?
Use a heavy-duty clipper with a wide opening, such as the steel clipper for thick nails, or a toenail nipper. Soak the feet first so the nail is softer, take several small cuts from one side to the other instead of one big cut, and file the edge smooth afterwards.
Can nail clippers go in a sterilizer?
Stainless steel clippers can be cleaned and disinfected like other metal implements: scrub off debris, then disinfect or sterilize following the product and equipment directions. MBI states its steel tools can go in an autoclave. Painted, coloured or plastic-trimmed clippers may not take heat, so check first.
Order online for in-store pickup at our Markham, Ontario store, usually ready in 2 to 4 hours, or have your order shipped anywhere in Canada.